DANIELPOUR Toward a Season of Peace
Hila Plitmann, Soprano
Pacific Chorale
Pacific Symphony Orchestra
John Alexander, Choir Director
Carl St. Clair, Conductor
Richard Danielpour, Composer
Naxos 8.559772
"A dynamic performance that impresses with its immense forces and energetic playing and compels an emotional response with its pacifist sentiments and beautiful lyricism….Soprano Hila Plitmann, the Pacific Chorale, and the Pacific Symphony, conducted by Carl St. Clair, give a lovely and reverent performance that is gorgeous in its harmonies and textures, and ultimately moving because of its simplicity and directness. " - All Music Guide
One of the most sought-after and acclaimed composers of his generation, Richard Danielpour refers to himself as “an American composer with a Middle Eastern memory.” His distinctive voice is part of a rich neo-Romantic heritage which includes composers such as Copland, Bernstein and Barber. Toward a Season of Peace is an oratorio which explores violence and war in the name of religion, using the season of spring as a metaphor for change and transformation toward songs of peace through forgiveness. Danielpour’s insistence on music having “an immediate visceral impact” can be heard throughout his oeuvre, and the beautifully translated Persian poetry and rich spirit of harmony in Toward a Season of Peace make it symbolic of a brighter future for everyone.
"The performances are simply stellar and well-shaped with great color. Certainly worth exploring for those who are interested in new works of this type. It also seems to mark some further development of the composer’s artistic style and orchestral approach from earlier pieces as well. The Pacific Symphony and Chorale do great work here and Hila Plitmann’s voice serves these texts well in her interpretation." - Cinemusical
"Powerful music, superb singing and outstanding orchestral support make this a significant addition to the contemporary oratorio genre." - Classical Lost and Found
"The impressing performance by Hila Plitmann, the Pacific Chorale and the Pacific Symphony Orchestra conducted by Carl St. Clair leaves no doubt that this work has the quality to become a common repertoire piece." - Pizzicato
"Hila Plitmann has the radiant voice required; the Pacific Chorale are unfailingly powerful at the appropriate points, and the orchestra, with Carl St. Clair at the helm, are worthy participants in this world premiere recording. Derived from concert performances, the sound is excellent." - David's Review Corner